Flag design enthusiasts have ranked Salem’s new cherry blossom motif among the top designs in the U.S. following a survey.
The North American Vexillological Association released the results of its survey Jan. 6, awarding just 46 flags for American cities an A grade, or 15% of those evaluated. Survey-takers included both NAVA members and the general public.
They considered a total of 312 municipal flags for cities that have adopted new designs since 2015.
Salem’s flags was listed among the top 25 in the U.S. alongside those for Salt Lake City, Reno and Tulsa.
The average grade awarded was a D, with over 60% of flags considered receiving a D or F grade. The lowest-rated flags typically included the city’s name or other text in the design, and include Franklin, Wisconsin; Covington, Washington and Republic, Missouri.
Salem adopted a new flag in 2022 following a multi-year process initiated by Brian McKinley, a former planning commissioner.
The city’s old flag, adopted in 1972, was rarely used and violated most principles of good flag design by including too many colors and text.
Following a design contest, Salem city councilors last July selected a cherry blossom motif designed by Salemite Jordan Keagle from among four finalists designs. Keagle and McKinley raised the flag at the Salem Civic Center Aug. 18 at the city’s 50th anniversary celebration for the building.
Salem’s was one of three Oregon flags evaluated in the survey. Silverton’s flag received a B+ grade, and Albany received a C+.
Contact reporter Rachel Alexander: [email protected] or 503-575-1241.
JUST THE FACTS, FOR SALEM – We report on your community with care and depth, fairness and accuracy. Get local news that matters to you. Subscribe to Salem Reporter. Click I want to subscribe!
Rachel Alexander is Salem Reporter’s managing editor. She joined Salem Reporter when it was founded in 2018 and covers city news, education, nonprofits and a little bit of everything else. She’s been a journalist in Oregon and Washington for a decade. Outside of work, she’s a skater and board member with Salem’s Cherry City Roller Derby and can often be found with her nose buried in a book.
